Thoughts for the Day

Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes,
and I will observe it to the end.
Give me understanding, that I may keep your law
and observe it with my whole heart.
Lead me in the path of your commandments,
for I delight in it.
Turn my heart to your decrees,
and not to selfish gain.
Turn my eyes from looking at vanities;
give me life in your ways.
Confirm to your servant your promise,
which is for those who fear you.
Turn away the disgrace that I dread,
for your ordinances are good.
See, I have longed for your precepts;
in your righteousness give me life.

(Lectionary, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

Did you know there are websites that argue that we should be selfish? They argue that survival means we need to look after ourself first and foremost. After after all how can we look after others if we don't care for ourselves! Others talk of being either community-centred or self-centred. Professors of psychiatry argue that we should be self-focused, put our priority in sorting ourselves out and then we'll be better leaders and get better jobs, people won't be able to manipulate us, etc, etc! You get the message I'm sure. Of course there is an element of truth in some of these sentiments, but these messages are also very appealing, feeding our initial desire as humans to be selfish.

These attitudes are also inherited by churches, and by countries, sometimes. How can we give away money to help others when we only have enough for ourselves, we say, and cries for reducing the 'Overseas Aid' Budget get louder.

The writer of Psalm 119 recognises how we are tempted just to look after ourselves, and reminds us to turn to God and ask Him to keep us from exploring selfish desires. As Christians we should put God first after all, and then love others as we love ourself.

Heavenly Father,
help us to to be honest with You;
to remember all that we owe You;
to care for those around us;
to be concerned for Your world;
and then to look at our own desires,
trusting in Your providence.
Amen.